DE3213036A1 - AUDIO / VIDEO EDITING SYSTEM WITH TOUCH-ACTIVE SCREEN - Google Patents

Description

Patent attorneys Dipl.-Ing. H. WEicKMANN / Diit.-PH-Ys. Dr. K.-Fimcke

Dipl.-Ing. F. A. Weickmann, Dipl.-Chem. B. Huber Dr. Ing.H. Liska

AO

8000 MUNICH 86, DEN ^ "^

PO Box 860 820

MÖHLSTRASSE 22, CALL NUMBER 98 39 21/22

PRE

AMPEX CORPORATION

401 Broadway

Redwood, California 94063

V.St.A.

Audio / video editing system with touch screen

Patent attorneys Dipl. Ing. H. Weickmann, Dipl.-PhVs Dr. K. * Fin "cke

Dipl.-Ing. R A.Weickmann, DiPL.-CHiM. B. Huber Dr. Ing.H. Liska

PRE

AMPEX CORPORATION

8000 MUNICH 86, DEN

PO Box 860 820

MÖHLSTRASSE 22, CALL NUMBER 98 39 21/22

Audio / video editing system with touch screen

Over the years the audio / video processing systems have changed or -Editing systems (audio / video editing systems) too complicated, sophisticated arrangements for processing and converting stored video and audio information into a desired version. At a Typical editing system of this type will select a variety of video or audio information Inputs recorded on a recording audio / video tape recorder under the careful control of a surgeon. The information to be recorded is normally in one or more of a plurality of original information magnetic tape sets -Len contained or saved, but can also come from a variety of input sources, such as a microphone or video camera. A between the recording tape recorder (record tape recorder) and the source tape recorders and all other input devices used The switch reacts to editing commands for precise control of the handheld magnetic recording device recorded information. With the help of a coded reference track that accompanies every recording on the tape and which include every single image or partial image of the recording

zein can be used during the one typical Recording operation sequence characterizing the editing process step maintain proper synchronization. With reference tracks of this type, Time code used (either recorded directly on the reference track within the video tracks, or recorded during the Vertical interval or the vertical time-out or a Combination of both), as in the various Society of Motion Picture And Television documents Engineers "(SMPTE) and the" European Broadcasting Union "(EBU) has been established.

In a common editing work step, the surgeon operates a keypad while viewing a video monitor screen is a visual indication of the video information being recorded on the tape recorder supplies. The keypad is usually a function keypad, i.e. a keypad made up of several Keys that each represent special editing functions.

The keys can be arranged in the so-called ASCII format or in any suitable arrangement. In ASCII format Arranged keys are also denoted by letters in a conventional typewriter keyboard arrangement are compiled; the various editing functions can therefore largely be done by feeling may be selected based on the surgeon's experience and memory, in much the same way like an experienced typist types.

With the increase in complexity and further refinement of the editing systems, the ones used for these systems were used Keypads bigger and more confusing. For example, it is not uncommon to use an edit keypad with more than 100 keys, each representing different editing functions or function types.

len. For a given apparatus, therefore, considerable Time expended and a lot of experience gained before the surgeon can edit functions quickly and effectively can perform. Even in those cases where the surgeon is experienced and completely familiar with you given editing system, there is the inevitable problem with conventional editing systems that with a rigid keypad with so many functions, mechanical considerations are required which are determined by the , Q lead away the creative aspect of editing, usually relies on time code representations of "the edit input and edit output points instead of in accordance with the image itself.

, p- Another limitation of many conventional editing systems lies in the restriction of the system "intelligence" or computing capacity to a central location. These Systems that have a central processor or other processing unit in connection with the editing functions use, usually concentrate data processing system parts of a limited extent to a central one Location and thereby limit the flexibility of an existing system for the future.

Over the years there have been several attempts at improvement the "human-machine interface" necessary for editing. At a A light pen, for example, is used to attempt these solutions. The stylus becomes relative to a transponder manually moved to select certain editing functions, reducing the number of required Buttons is decreased. Such systems replace the keypad buttons with the light pen at best, wherein it is necessary for the surgeon to pick up and handle the light pen during each operation.

It is therefore desirable to provide an editing system with an improved man-machine interface, i. with improved possibility of collaboration between man and machine in order to achieve artistic achievement To facilitate points of view and to facilitate access to video editing.

Furthermore, an editing system is to be provided which is able to create various menus (compilations) of editing functions to be selected by the surgeon.

It is also desirable to provide an editing system which is able to access a different

, .. number of information inputs and to different Ib

Adapt types to information inputs.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide an editing system which is able to _{carry out “intelligent” operations in “n} peripheral parts or sections of the system, in addition to the data processing option in a central area of the system.

The aims listed above are, inter alia, by the ER _Oi - invention reached and is characterized in that an editing system is provided which is able to map different menus of the edit information and choices (selections) on a display screen. The display screen reacts to the operator touching selected areas of the screen by changing the menus and at the same time performing the desired editing functions. The presentation of a compilation of editing information and options of limited scope at a given point in time enables the surgeon to focus on a special type or special types of currently running editing operations

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^ focus. At the same time there is considerable versatility achieved in that the surgeon can choose the level at which he wants to work, and any Change the compilation as he sees fit

can in order to incorporate levels of work in this way

Combine differently and create bespoke menus with practically unlimited possibilities.

The versatility of the editing system and how it works are improved according to the invention in that the system is put together in such a way "that data processing capacities are provided both at peripheral locations and at a central location. To this Way, a single central processor can come in handy

simultaneously with a variety of different input 15

devices communicate. Suitable interfaces ensure that data is converted into a machine-compatible one Shape, tailored to the special requirements of the peripheral input and output devices.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention

of the audio / video editing system is a data monitor with a cathode ray tube or another display device connected to an editing control, from which the __ data monitor the various compilations (menus)

to editing information ⁴ . ^ n and choices. The screen is provided with a device which provides a network of interruptible beams running across the screen. As soon as the surgeon

OQ to a specific character or group of characters points at the screen, the rays are interrupted in this area of the screen, whereupon a corresponding one Signal of the edit control is fed. The editing control, which is a central processing unit

gj- unit, a memory and a character generator, responds to this by making appropriate changes in the on

the menu presented to the visual display. A character generator coupled to the central processing unit provides the various characters that make up the different ones displayed on the data monitor Menus exist. At the same time, the central processing unit together with its associated Memory for other parts of the editing system ready to carry out editing functions that have been triggered ("Commanded") when the operator touches specific areas of the displayed menus. In addition to Touch responsive data monitor, the editing system can use one or more conventional Keypads are provided, which are also capable of editing information and options or choices to be fed to the editing control.

The editing controls include a variety of intelligent, i.e. programmable line controllers (intelligent line controllers) connected to the central processing unit are coupled. One of the programmable line controls is associated with the data monitor paired touch-sensitive device. Another programmable line control is with a tape recorder coupled, on which the edited data material is saved. Another programmable line control is coupled to a changeover switch. The remaining programmable line controls are each connected to a separate data source for input information connected. These input information sources can include devices such as video cameras or audio microphones, however, they typically consist of source or source data tape devices. The switch is between the tape recorder and the various input data sources such as the source information tape devices are switched to control the interconnection of the input sources with

the tape recorder. Each of the programmable line controls, each of which has its own processing unit and its own memory, can perform “intelligent” functions (in particular freely programmable functions) at locations remote from the central processing unit. In addition to converting parallel data from the central processing unit into serial data form and vice versa, each of the intelligent (especially programmable) line controls serves as a data buffer _Ω between the central processing unit and the various tape devices and other peripheral devices. The "intelligent" functions carried out by the freely programmable line controls enable the central processing unit to practically simultaneously j. to communicate with the different parts of the peripheral devices. This gives you an expandable (open-end ^ d) editing system that can be connected to input devices of changing numbers and types. The various input devices, such as

2Q the source data tape devices as well as the switcher and the tape recorder with the various freely programmable line controls via interfaces (interfaces) that are used for converting the serial data of the freely programmable line control

"Mung in one of the respective tape device or other connected GerUi_en provide usable form.

The above objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the more detailed description below Exercise of a preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. It shows:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an inventive Audio / video editing system;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the data monitor of the editing system according to FIG. 1 with one in connection touch-sensitive «! Facility;

Figure 3 is a block diagram of the editing system of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a block diagram of the human-system interface forming section of the editing system according to FIG. 3;

Figure 5 is a block diagram of the various of the edit controls the editing system according to FIG. 3 performed basic functions;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the editing control forming portion of the editing system of FIG. 3 with further details;

Figure 7 is a block diagram of one of the video device interfaces in the arrangement of Figure 6;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of one of the "intelligent" line controllers of the arrangement of FIG. 6;

Figure 9 is a block diagram of the switch and effects generator the arrangement according to FIG. 6; and

Fig. 10 is a flow chart to illustrate the type and Way in which the editing system uses the data monitor and the touch-sensitive device Implementation of user decisions in editing processes.

1 shows a video editing system 10 in accordance with the invention. The video editing system 10 is mounted on a table 12

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or built into a table and includes a data monitor 14 with touch-sensitive (interactive) Screen and a video monitor 16 on the top of the table 12. On the top of the table 12 is a desk 18 with a control stick (possibly cross lever) attached. A function keypad 20 (designated keyboard) or a function keypad 22 with in an ASCII format arranged keys, both of which are in tig. 1 shown can also be used to provide alternative human-system interfaces.

The video editing system 10 of FIG. 1 can have up to three various human-system interfaces (human influence on the system and possibly also

15. Vice versa), which from the data monitor 14 with touch-sensitive screen, the function keypad 20 u ^ d the ASCII keypad 22 are each under Use of a control lever panel 18. The control lever panel 18 has, in addition to one control lever, several on its Control buttons located on the top. In the control A special tape transport process with the help of one of the human-system interfaces 14, 20, 22 can do that Control lever console 18 can be used to control the sequence of this transport process, the function keypad 20 can be constructed in a conventional manner and include all the various buttons and control devices those used to implement the various types used in modern, sophisticated editing systems Editing functions are required. The ASCII keypad 22 is in a conventional typewriter arrangement keys so that the operator can enter the various editing functions into the system can be. The keypads 20 and 22 represent two different alternative ways of controlling the Editing system 10 by the operator. The video monitor 16 with a touch-sensitive screen provides a

-ΜΙ Picture the video information like this during the through the Editing performed by the operator is recorded by a recording tape recorder.

The touch-sensitive data monitor 14 according to FIG the invention provides a superior, extremely advantageous interface between humans and the editing system 10. As shown in more detail in FIG. 2, the data monitor 14 includes touch-sensitive

-, Q screen a cathode ray tube 26 with a screen 18 on its front. A touch input system 30 is mounted adjacent to the screen 28. The touch input system 30 provides a pattern of interruptible rays across the front of the screen 28

, ρ · her using light emitting diodes and Photo detectors. In this example, the touch-sensitive Input system 30 of one manufactured by the Carroll Manufacturing Company of Champaign, Illinois System is formed and includes two different rows of light emitting diodes 32 and 34 on the left and right side, respectively. at the bottom of the screen 28 (see Fig. 2). The touch-sensitive input system 30 further includes a first A plurality (in particular a row) of photodetectors 36 on the right-hand side of the screen 28, the light-emitting ones Diodes 32 opposite one another, and a second plurality of photodetectors 38 along the top of the screen 28, the light emitting diodes 34 opposite. The light emitting diodes 32 emit infrared rays from which are essentially parallel across the front of the

OQ screen 28 to the photo detectors 36 run. Every each of the light-emitting diodes is assigned to one of the photodetectors 36 in such a way that the Infrared beam from this light-emitting diode falls on this photodetector. Similarly send the

ge light emitting diodes 34 infrared rays that upward along the front surface of the screen 28 im

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- • ΜΙ essentially parallel to one another to the photodetectors 38 get lost.

The light emitting diodes 32 and 34 with the photo detectors 36 and 38 form an X-Y coordinate system of rays across the face of the screen 28. As soon as the If the surgeon touches a specific location on the screen 28, as shown in FIG. 1, one or more will be Infrared rays from the light emitting diodes 32 and 34

IQ interrupted. A control logic box 40 is coupled to the photodetectors 36 and 38 and responds to this interruption by providing a signal representative of the particular location on the screen 28 touched by the operator. The control logic box does this by taking the average or the mean Y-coordinate of the infrared rays emitted and interrupted by the light-emitting diodes 32, as well as the mean X-coordinate of the interrupted infrared rays emitted by the light-emitting diodes 34. The resulting output of the control logic box therefore represents the mean XY position of the area touched by the operator on the screen 28. The control logic box 40 is of conventional construction and can be separate from or connected to the light emitting diodes 32 and 34 and the photodetectors 36 and 38 as part of a full ^ idigen touch input system 30 can be constructed or purchased.

The particular touch input system 30 is shown and described for purposes of illustration only; However, it is clear that other touch-sensitive systems are also used which are able to emit an output signal which one touched on the screen 28 Indicating range. The touch 35 that can be used with the invention

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sensitive systems include a variety of different Manufacturing products, such as those that use a laminate or multi-layer material made of conductive glass and plastic is used, those where acoustic waves

ρ- can be used and those where a pattern of conductive Areas on the screen is etched out.

The following explanations show that the data monitor 14 with its touch-sensitive input _ system 30 an extremely versatile and advantageous interface between human and the editing system "TO. The editing system 10 can have a composition called a menu of editing information and options from a large number of different menus on the data monitor Figure 14. The surgeon then selects one or more

Editing options by selecting the character on the screen 28 describing this option or represents, touches. Every time the screen 28 is touched by the surgeon, the resulting output

2Q signal the control logic box 40 to a portion of the Editing system 10 supplied, which this information with the characters displayed on the screen compares to determine the specific function selected by the surgeon. The system 10 then carries out each

₂ p. Weil required editing function and changes the information displayed on the screen 28 at the same time. Such changes can be, for example, that a completely new menu of information and options is displayed on the monitor 14 or that

QQ only the original menu is changed. This enables the surgeon to concentrate on editing from the point of view of different levels, in particular hierarchical levels of the editing functions or different

j den types or classes of functions. Since the Art and the way in which the composition (makeup) of a special menu to be displayed has practically no limits is possessed by the editing system based on the invention

ρ- now a high degree of versatility and flexibility.

Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of the editing system 10. The editing system 10 includes a human-system interface _n point 42, which is shown in Fig. 4 and from the stick plate or stick-panel-18, the functions Keypad 20, ASCII keypad 22, and touch input system 30. The human-system interface 22, like the one with touch-sensitive

.._ Lich screen provided data monitor 14 with an editing ο

Control 44 coupled. Every time one of the buttons or other control devices on the desk 18 or the Keypads 20 and 22 are operated or if the touch input system 30 touching a surface

2Q detects the screen of the data monitor 14, a corresponding Signal of the edit control 44 supplied. The edit control 44 directs the data monitor 14 to the menus of editing information and options too; the editing control 44 also controls all

_2i - its sections of the editing system 10 including the following equipment:

Three different source audio / video tape devices 46, 48 and 50, a recording audio / video tape recorder 52 and a gQ switcher and effects generator 54.

Each of the source audio / video tape devices 46, 48 and 50 provides a different audio / video input signal to the switcher and effects generator 54. The switcher and effects generator 54 forwards one or more of the audio /

-ΚΙ Video input signals to the recording audio / video tape device 52. The video information recorded on the recording audio / video tape recorder 52 is also applied to a preview switcher 56, which in turn is controlled by the editing controller 44. The image control switch 56 in turn provides the video information for display on the video monitor 16. The image control switch is required for certain types of tape recorders when they are used as _n recording audio / video tape recorders. With other types of tape recorders, the image control switch 56 is not required. The editing control 44 is also coupled to a printer punch tape device 58 for its control.

A floppy disk system (with a flexible magnetic disk or imaging plate) is connected to the edit control 44 in order to transmit data to the edit control 44, but also to transfer data from the edit controller 44 to receive data. The floppy

2Q disk system 60 provides an example of one for these purposes usable mass storage, although a variety of other types of mass storage are used for this purpose can be. At the beginning, the instructions stored on a floppy disk for the various on the

og data monitor 14 to be mapped menus and the various Editing functions from the floppy disk system 60 are loaded into the editing control 40. Subsequently, during or after the implementation Editing functions can receive certain information from the editing control 44 for storage in the floppy disk.

go disk system 60 are issued; put this information the location and nature of the various during a length of tape within the recording audio / video tape device 52 performed editing functions. For this purpose, alternative mass storage systems can contain the information, for example

gg in a built-in programmable read-only memory (on-board PROM) or a charge memory module (CCD memory).

-45-

After the menus and other information from the floppy disk system 60 have been loaded into the editing control 44, the editing control 44 takes care of the display an initial menu of information and options

on the data monitor 14. As soon as the surgeon is through 5

Pressing a button on one of the keypads 20 and 22 or by touching the screen 28 of the data monitor 14 responds, a signal is sent from the human-system interface 42 to the editing control 44. The editing control 44 determines the editing function represented by the signal and then changes, if necessary, the display on the data monitor 14, either by changing the present menu or by Feeding a new menu to the data monitor 14.

At the same time, all within the system 10 are through-15

Feeding editing functions under the control of the editing controller 44 carried out. For example, if you want video information from one or more of the source tape devices 46, 48 and 50 are recorded on the tape recorder 52

the, the editing control 44 controls the be-20

appropriate source tape decks, the recording tape deck 52, and the switcher-and-effects generator 54. The processing using the various different video information is precisely synchronized

__ one on the different tape lengths or tape sections zo

th recorded time code track or control track that identifies the recordings on the basis of the individual images (frame-by-frame basis). The editing control reacts continues to respond to input signals given by the human-system interface 42 and changes accordingly the menus on the data monitor 14 and executes accordingly Editing functions off until all editing steps have been completed.

As noted above, the edit control controls both source tape drives 46, 48 and 50, recording

recording tape recorder 52 as well as the switch and effects generator 54. The editing control 44 offers the possibility for cuts or sharp fades (cuts), for key fade-ins (local fade-in or "keys"), for dissolves (dissolves) and for special effects. Marking points (cue points) are selected or set by hand to control the belt speed and transport device. In this operating mode, the editing start and end points (edit-in or IQ edit-out) are set manually (or initiated by the operator). If desired, marker points can also be selected or set by introducing time code values for entry and exit points. Values for pre-roll and post-roll are entered as well as the duration for dissolve and for special effects.

The source audio / video tape devices 46, 48 and 50 are via device interfaces or machine interfaces 62, 64 or 66 connected to the editing control 44. That The recording audio / video tape device 52 is coupled to the editing control 44 via a machine interface 68. The printer / punched tape device 58 is connected to the editing control 44 via an interface 70. The toggle and effects generator 54 is coupled to the editing control 44 via a switch interface 72. The various interfaces 62, 64, '66, 68, 70 and 72 are used to convert the editing control 44 data supplied or output by this, namely in a serial form, like this the data at the output of the edit control 44, and a form in which the data from the respective tape device or others with the system parts connected to the respective interface can still be used. For example, a certain one demands Type of tape recorder a DC voltage between 0 and + 10V to control the forward and reverse

2?

tape movement, while other types of tape devices a variable frequency signal is required to control the belt movement. The different interfaces carry out the conversion of the

p- 44 incoming data in such a form.

A typical interface of this type is described in more detail in connection with FIG.

Fig. 5 shows the performed by the editing control 44-

_{1 (} 2nd basic functions or basic functions while FIG. 6 specifies the controller 44 in detail. According to FIG. 6, the editing controller 44 comprises a central processing unit 74 and an associated memory 76 includes both a free

-c addressable read only memory (ROM) as also a random access memory (RAM). The central processing unit 74 is over a disk drive controller 78 is coupled to a floppy disk system 60. The central processing unit is above it also connected to the human-system interface 42 via a character generator 80 which is connected to the data monitor 14 emits output signals which represent the information displayed on the monitor 14. As soon as information from the floppy disk is loaded into the editing control 44 within the floppy disk system 60, such information is stored in memory 76. The central processing unit 74 responds to signals that of the human-system interface 42 of the unit via a freely programmable (intelligent) line control 82 and a data bus 84 are supplied. Based on the human-system interface 42 incoming signals, the central processing unit 74 performs any editing function within the System 10 as directed by the signals.

At the same time, the central processing unit 74 causes a change to the currently displayed on the data monitor 14.

provided menus or provides the illustration of a new one Menus if necessary. This is achieved by the fact that the desired ones to be displayed on the data monitor Characters can be determined by the memory 76 and the character

c generator 80 are transmitted. The character generator 80, who has stored the various characters in a grid of points reacts to those output by the memory 76 Character information by causing the desired characters to be displayed on monitor 14.

To those "stored" in memory 76 from floppy disk system 60 Data also includes general instructions identified in FIG. 5 as operating system 86. That Operating system 68 controls four separate ρ-ths Processes designated as command generator 88, map generator 90, input / output controller 92, and machine controller 94. The four different processes or workflows 88, 80, 92 and 94 are executed in parallel under the control of the operating system 86.

2Q The command generator 88 is responsive to signals from the human-system interface 42, in which he specifies what to do. This results in the creation of data that is stored in a common database or database (database) 96 can be entered. The process of image generation (image generator) 90 includes checking the data entered in the common database 96 to determine to be able to display what is to be displayed on the data monitor 14. The map generator 90 provides all of In connection with changes in the screen image, the data required for the character generator 80 are available. The input / output controller 92 provides control of the printer / tape system and a file system (file system) as well as for the control of any other peripheral system parts in addition to the various tape devices and switches. The machine controller 94 responds to data entered into the common database 96 by

-'ΜΙ It determines what action is taken from the source tape devices 46, 48 and 50, the tape recorder 52 and the switches. Corresponding commands are then passed from the edit control 44 to the tape devices and changeover switches.

Since the editing process is becoming more and more complicated and refined, the most effective possible use of the expensive ones comes On-line edit time is a high priority. The parameters of Editing operations that are less costly while Off-line time compiled and controlled (previewed) must be saved for later reference, playback or transfer to on-line devices. Around To achieve this, a list of such editing decisions is stored along with all of the for the respective execution of the corresponding editing steps necessary parameters. Such information can be found in the Floppy disk system 60, in memory 76 or in FIG. 3 printer-and-perforated tape system 58 shown may be stored. If an editing session is interrupted, the Editing decisions and parameters can be temporarily saved in one of these locations for later reloading and complete. Once the editing sequence has been fully established, this information can be used for control purposes the editing sequence (edit) or for transmission such editing processes can be used on on-line systems.

The central processing unit 74 of FIG. 6 can be provided by any suitable central processing unit such as a central processing unit formed by a single card, which under the designation LSI-11 from the 'Digital Equipment Corporation' on sale is. The memory 76 preferably has a RAM capacity of 64K bytes or more. A timer or clock 98 generates timing signals for edit control

-ΜΙ As explained above, the touch input system works 30 in connection with the data monitor 14 with a touch-sensitive screen (touchscreen data monitor) in order to perform various functions when touched by the surgeon. These functions include system operations, entering data and changing an editing decision. The joystick console 18 is used in conjunction with the touch-sensitive input system to provide manual transport control as well as the selection or definition of edit input / output points. The joystick console 18 can also be used in conjunction with the function keypad 20 or the ASCII keypad 22.

Taken together, the keypads 20 and 22 and the desk 18 allow the operator to enter system editing data, Select menus, trim or adjust editing points and control transport processes. The functions keypad 20 has special keys for special system operations. All system operations functions will be controlled via assigned buttons, such as the preview, data preparation or assembly (edit), search, CUE or search or director's mark (cue), rewind, playback marking, input marking, Exit mark (play mark entry / mark exit), cross-fading or interference by keying (key dissolve), Setting or readjusting the entry or starting point (set / trim entry / exit). Assignable keys (soft keys) can can also be assigned functions on the function keypad 20 by the operator that vary from edition to edition can switch. Each of these assignable keys can influence the edit control 44 in a similar manner can be used as the touch input system 30 to view details of a displayed by the data monitor 14 Modify menus or change the menu.

The switch and effects generator 54 can be used are used to select a cut or a sharp fade, a dissolve, key or Key overlay or one of many different forms of wipe patterns. The cuts occur when moving from one source to another, with the choice of hard or soft cut edges is possible. All effects are reversible or reversible in their direction. The key mode

jQ ensures fade-up or fade-down a keyed foreground into a background. The key input signal intersects basically a hole (keyhole) in the background in the shape of the key video signal, such as a title

, ρ or a graphic. The key foreground fills that Hole in the background. The duration of the fade-in or fade-out can be selected. During all effects except With the key functions described above, the sound (aduio) is faded from one source to the other.

In order to understand the nature of the various menus displayed on the data monitor 14, it is helpful to have a Consider a single example of an editing system 10 having both primary menus and secondary menus. The primary menus are arranged to carry out common editing requests. With these a medium amount of information is mapped, which allows the surgeon to carry out a large number of steps without changing the menu, while at the same time limiting the information shown in total all of these menus to avoid confusion and confusion. There are six primary menus, among others the following:

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\ 1. System parameters - This is the first menu that appears on the data monitor 14 after switching on the editing system. It is primarily used as a reference point or reference list or distribution list or distribution list (dispatcher) from which further menus can be selected for editing. Usually control functions for the general system setup (general system setup controls) are arranged in this menu controls.

2. Edit Decision List -

In this menu part of the current editing decision is shown and the possibility of control or control required to change this decision -c. There are also controls or control options or control options mapped for control viewing editing sequences (previewing edits) with the help of the switch 54.

2Q 3. Edit Decision Configuration List (Edit Decision List Configuration) - This menu is used to select the Editing decision parameters used. The menu lists all parameters as well as their current ones Configuration or assignment of values as headings or preambles of the editing decision list can be used. The menu holds a variety of different versions of edit decision list headers ready and allows parameters to be added, removed or rearranged within

3Q of the edit decision lists.

4. Edit Construction - This menu includes an ongoing display of the particulars under construction current edition (edit). This menu shows editing start and end points (in-edit and out-edit), Transport circumstances, roles or reels (reels) and effects and allows the surgeon to choose among them.

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This menu can be combined with a number of secondary menus for adaptation to specific Editie- ¹ "requirements.

5. Transport Configuration - This Menu enables the selection and mapping of the current transport parameters, such as: logical Instructions, intelligent line control channel, interface type, tape reel number and transport status.

The secondary menus in this example are compiled for separate specialized editing functions and are not included in the primary menus.

All secondary menus except those for numeric ones Key data padding (numerical keypad) appear as an addition to the lower part of the primary menu. With the key data populations (keypads) the Prompts the operator to enter numerical data, such as

the image advance duration and the image lag duration (pre-roll and post-roll duration). The transport control functions for the video tape devices include the functions Play, rewind, fast forward, search, and move back and forth or fade out (shuttle functions). Special effects can be performed, with a wide range of variations of flexibly manageable control or control options is given. Split edit steps (split edit modes) of sound (audio) and picture (video) can come from or at different points on the source videotapes be determined. Controls of preview editions or control viewing editions (preview edits), Cuts or sharp transitions (cuts), transitions (dissolves), rolling cuts (wipe), going into the black or fades to or from black and key modes, respectively with programmable duration are included as well as control options for scrolling, in particular image

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-ΜΙ run, (controls over rolls).

Fig. 7 shows in detail a typical interface of the interfaces used, such as the machine interfaces 62, 64, 66 and 68. As mentioned above, each of these interfaces provides for in both directions ongoing communication between the controller 44 and the tape device to be controlled. The entrance to the interface comprises a pair of serial data lines 100 and 100

102. Line 100 carries serial data from a serial data processor 104 to edit control 44 ^ Conversely, line 102 carries serial data from the edit control 44 to the serial data processor 104. The serial data processor 104 comprises a universal asynchronous transceiver (universal asynchronous receiver transmitter), which converts incoming serial data into parallel Converts data before they are fed to a central processing unit (CPU) with memory 105. An individual module (personality module) 106 translates the parallel Data from the central processing unit with memory 106 in transport commands suitable for the Tape device 108. The various peripherals listed above require different types of signals. For example, some tape devices require DC voltage to control the capstan speed, while others require a Require AC voltage signal, the frequency of which determines the belt speed.

The tape device 108 is connected to the central processing unit with memory 105 both via the individual module as well as via a time code reader / processor 110. The connection from the tape device 108 to the time code reader / processor 110 provides time code track communication between the tape and the time code reader / processor 110. Usually the time code track or the time code information from the tape deck 108 is from the The track is read and fed to the time code reader / processor 110, where the time code information is in the form of a serial

-ΜΙ bit stream is decoded in parallel data form.

From the interface according to FIG. 7 to the editing control 44 signals emitted include transport counter signals

j- nale (transport tally signals), status signals (status signals) and time code data. The counter and status signals are buffered and then transferred to the data bus 84 within the Editing control 44 supplied. As previously mentioned, serial time code data is ground from time code reader / processor 110

_{n converted} into parallel data. These data are then fed to the editing control 44.

As has already been noted above for FIG. 6, the human-system interface 42 is with the central p. Processing unit 74 via an intelligent (program-

mbaren) line control 82 connected. In the present example, the editing control 44 comprises the intelligent one Line control 82 as well as three other intelligent Line controls 112, 114 and 116. The intelligent one

2Q line control 112 couples the central processing unit 74 with the machine interface 62. The intelligent one Line controller 114 connects to the central processing unit 74 with the switch interface 72. The intelligent line control 116 connects the central Processing unit 74 with the machine interface 68. Each of the intelligent line controls 82, 112, 114 and 116 comprise an intelligent communication interface between the edit controller 44 and the external peripheral devices, such as the audio / video tape

QQ devices and the machine system interface 42. Data the central processing unit 74, which are passed on via the data bus 84, are in parallel form. Each of the controllers 82, 112, 114 and 116 converts these Data into serial form before the controllers feed this data to the peripheral devices. Be reversed from the peripheral devices to the central processing

3213O36'V: - ^:.

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Unit 74 converts data to be transmitted from the respective controllers 82, 112, 114 and 116 from serial to parallel form. The various controls 82, 112, 114 and 118 are not only used for data format conversion but also for buffering between the peripheral devices and the central processing unit 74. The intelligent line controls also check the data input formats, they convert data formats and perform certain simple control functions, such as e.g. automatic ^ Q time code and status requests or status requests. The central processing unit 74 cannot communicate with two or more peripheral devices at the same time. The various controllers, however, provide for essentially simultaneous communication, IQ by receiving this data and keeping it with them until the central processing unit 74 is ready to receive this data.

The various intelligent line controls 82, 112, 114 and 116 are constructed in the same way as those in FIG. 8 shown. The intelligent line control of FIG. 8 comprises a first bus transceiver 118, which with the central processing unit 74 is connected for communication of address and data between the intelligent Line control and the central processing unit 74. The bus transceiver (bus transceiver) 118 is via an address bus 122 and a data bus 124 to an ILC central processing unit 120 (ILC CPU) connected. The address bus 122 is also connected to and on a 4K random access memory (RAM) 126 a 1K read only memory (ROM) 128. The data bus 124 is also coupled to 4K random access memory 126 and 1K read only memory 128. A second bus transmitter / receiver 130 is connected to the central processing unit 120 via a control bus 132 as well as with the central processing unit 74 and is designed for

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, specifies synchronization as well as handling tax requirements, which are reciprocally transmitted between the intelligent line controller and the central processing unit 74 will.

An address comparator 134 receives two different input signals, one from the bus transceiver 118 and the other from an on-board address select switch group 136. The address comparator 134 compares the content of the addresses received from the central processing unit 74 with the Setting of the address selection switch group 136. In the case of a valid or positive comparison, commands the comparator 134 of the ILC central processing unit

120 controls the data and address buses 122 and 124. 15

As soon as this control or activation of the buses has been terminated by the intelligent line control, Data from central processing unit 74 to random access memory 126 of the intelligent line control. The ILC central processing unit 120 in turn, formats the data in random access memory 126 and then transmits this data via a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter 138 to the interface shown in FIG. 7. Incoming from the interface

serial data are received from the universal asynchronous receiver / 25th

Transmitter 138 is converted into parallel form which generates an interrupt signal and supplies it to the ILC central processing unit 120. Once the ILC-central processing unit 120, the interrupt signal _n receives the incoming data is formatted and written into the random access memory 126th The new data in the direct access memory 126 are then read by the central processing unit 74 by requesting bus controls or bus control from the ILC central processing unit 120 and then reading the data. The frequency or rate with the

Ii

the serial signals from the universal asynchronous receiver / Transmitter 138 fed to the interface is determined by a baud generator 140 in conjunction with a Baud rate selection switch group 142.

The toggle and effects generator 154 is shown in FIG. 9 exactly represented. The intelligent line control 114 assigned to the switch 54 is connected to the switch 54 coupled via the switch interface 72. The switch interface 72, which can be of the same structure can, like the one shown in Fig. 7, is designed to use composite sync signals and receive composite blanking signals. At the output of the switch interface 72 there is an address bus 144 and a data bus 146. The buses (bus bars) 144 and 146 are with coupled to a video processor / mixer 148 at the output of switch 54, either via a video crosspoint circuit 150 or a wave generator 152 and a video processor 154. Buses 144 and 146 are also connected to an audio crosspoint circuit (audio crosspoint circuit) 156 connected.

The toggle and effects generator 54 is primarily used Used for mixing operations and trick fading or rolling cuts (wiping operations). In the case of a mixing process

one of the audio crosspoint circuit 146 is supplied Input signals as well as one of the input signals fed to the video crosspoint circuit 150 to the Video processor / mixer 148 applied. The video processor 154 is also used in such operations. The trick fade or the rolling cut (wiping operation) is performed using the wave generator 152 and the video processor 154.

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Fig. 10 shows a flow chart for illustration the manner in which the editing system 10 has the data monitor 14 along with the touch input system 30 is used to convert the surgeon's decisions into editing measures.

At step 160 shown in FIG. 10, the System 10 via the editing control 44 to the operator List of permissible choices to be presented. At different points within an editing process be different groups of ope "rateur choices considered admissible. The edit control 44 first sets this group of choices in step 160. Usually this depends on the Type of process step currently being carried out. It is

possible that the edit control 44 additionally has to check information which it receives from other sources, or information previously stored in memory 76.

In a next step 162, each permissible selection option is displayed on the screen 28 of the data monitor 14. Each option from the group of permissible options is a set of essential pieces of information

₂ , _ assigned. One of this information describes at which location on the screen 28 this option is presented to the surgeon. Additional information is which character is to be displayed on the screen 28 so that the operator is able to identify the

3Q option to identify and understand. To Compiling a valid group of choices, each of these characters (label) is assigned to the Position shown on the screen 28. In this way, the surgeon is informed how the modern

Q5 mentane group is composed of choices and that the surgeon is now expected to do one of these

selects.

In the next step 164 the screen 28 of the data monitor 14 is scanned and in block 166 the decision is made carried out whether a beam has been interrupted or not. As soon as the surgeon has determined which the characters displayed on the screen 28 correspond to the action carried out by the editing system 10 would like to have, he places a finger (or some other thing) on these characters on the screen

28. As mentioned above, the light emitting diodes 32 and 34 attached adjacent to the screen 28 transmit Infrared rays directed at respective photodetectors 36 and 38. Placing the The operator's finger at a particular location on the screen 28 causes one or more of the photodetectors 36 and 38 detect a break in the infrared rays normally received. Through periodic Checking the output signals of the photodetectors 36 and 38, the editing system determines the presence of a finger established. By assigning numerical values to the various photo detectors 36 and 38, the editing system is also able to calculate numbers which are the horizontal and vertical coordinates of the screen 28 located Fingers represent. As a result of periodically checking the output signals of the photodetectors 36 and 38, decision block 166 indicates whether one or more of the infrared rays have been interrupted or not.

If decision 166 is that one or more of the infrared rays have been interrupted, the next step 168 is the distance of the finger to all options displayed on the screen calculated. It has already been mentioned that each option displayed on the screen 28 provides information

mation is assigned via the display location on the screen. Each group element from the group of choices is checked and the distance between the position associated with this option and the Position of the finger calculated. The option with the closest distance from the finger position is called the one selected by the surgeon considered. If the finger is too far from the closest option, no action, especially editing action, is carried out, Q guided. This step (of the flow chart) is illustrated in FIG. 10 by decision block 170.

If decision 170 is "yes", indicating that the finger is at least within a nominal distance of one of the choices and that one choice other than that of the surgeon desired has been determined (by the system), then the value associated with that option becomes the following Step 172 calculates. With every option in the

2Q group of fixed choices is a definite one Assigned value. During step 172 that value is determined which is the option selected by the surgeon assigned. Using this value, the editing system 10 performs the desired editing action

2g as shown in the following step 174 in FIG is. The value determined in step 172 corresponds to the type of signal that is generated when either the function keypad 30 or the ASCII keypad 22 is used.

QQ The various steps shown in the flow chart of FIG. 10 can be better understood if one looks at an example. Assume that at some point during an editing session the operator is expected to enter a number between 0 and 9; so under these circumstances there are ten possible choices. Each of these

-ΜΙ Choices is a location on the screen 28 of the Data monitor 14 assigned. A character displayed on the screen 28 corresponds to each selection option namely the numbers "1", "2", "3" etc. If the surgeon wants to select the number "7", he places a finger to the location of the screen 28 at which the number "7" is displayed. The infrared rays associated with this location are interrupted, whereupon the editing system determines the horizontal and vertical coordinates of the finger. All ten options are checked and the distance between their positions on Screen 28 and the position of the finger on the screen 28 are calculated. The following example uses the Number "7" corresponding choice found as the closest. Each choice is one Assigned value. In this example, the value "7" can correspond to the ASCII code for "7". this is the value that most computers and message processing devices use to represent a "7" Button is used. The editing system 10 is used now this value in the same way as if it was this value from a conventional keypad or a data transmission device, as received from the function keypad 20 or from the ASCII keypad 22, for example.

The invention is not limited to that described above preferred embodiment limited; Various modifications are also within the scope of the invention in form and details.

The audio / video editing system according to the invention is presented different combinations (menus) of editing functions on a screen and changes the menus and performs various editing functions once selected Areas of the screen by an operator

(Surgeon) are touched. An array of light emitting diodes and photo detectors creates a network across rays across the screen. As soon as the surgeon has his finger on a specific imaged g keeps characters on the screen, certain rays are interrupted. The presentation of the menus as well as the Editing functions are controlled by an editing control which comprises a central processing unit with a memory which is loaded with data from a computer

, Q file (computer file system) is loaded, also with a Character generator for the various menus on the screen and a variety of intelligent, with a variety line controls coupled from source tape recorders and finally to a record tape recorder and

, c a switch for coupling one or more of the Source tape devices with the recording tape device. Each intelligent line controller, which has its own processing unit and memory, controls the flow of data between them the central processing unit and the various tape devices and the switch in addition to theirs Function of converting the data from parallel to serial form and vice versa. A separate interface between each of the intelligent line controls and the respectively assigned tape device or switch is interposed, includes processors that convert the data into a usable by the tape device or switch Convert shape.

Claims (1)

Claims 1. Editing system in which information is provided by at least one Source (46, 48, 50) under the control of a controller (44) is recorded, marked with a the control (44) coupled monitor (14) for visual Representation of editing information and options, a device (30), which on a touch of certain areas of the visual image by a The operator transmits a detection signal for the touched surface to the control system and is further identified by a device (86, 96, 88) within the controller (44) for providing an editing function on the detection signal fed to the control system. 2. Editing system according to claim 1, characterized by a device (86, 96, 88) assigned to the controller (44) for changing the visual image onto that of the Control (44) supplied detection signal out. 3. Editing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized shows that the monitor (14) has a cathode tube (26) with a screen (28) and that the touch-sensitive device (30) the surface of the screen (28) includes adjacently disposed means (32,34) for creating a mesh across the screen (28) and means (36, 38) for generating an indication when at least one of the Radiation has been interrupted by a surgeon. - ^ g 4. Editing system, in particular according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized by at least one source (46, 48, 50) of information to be edited, a recording device (52) for recording edited information and a device (44) for controlling the • ^ 5 Record the information to be edited on the recording device (52), wherein the control device (44) comprises the following elements: a visual display device (14), a device (86, 96, 90) for providing different compilations (menus) of editing information for display on the visual display device (14) and a device which responds to the touch selects one of the menus in certain areas of the visual display device (14). 5. editing system according to claim 4, characterized in that the touch-sensitive device (30) has a. Means (86, 96, 90) for selecting a menu of editing information for mapping on the visual Display device (14), the selection being based on the determined on a touched by the operator Location of the visual display device (14) mapped information is based. 6. editing system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the control device (44) a device (30, 86, 96, 88) comprises for implementing tion of editing process steps within the editing system to a touch of selected areas of the visual display device (14). c / 7.i Edititer system, especially after one of the previous ^ "" ^ going claims, characterized by: - at least one source (46, 48, 50) for information, _in - a recording device (52), - A switch (54) for the optional doubling of the Information source (46, 48, 50) with the recording device (52), - A processor (44, 74) for controlling the information quo 1 le (46, 48, 50) to which processor (44, 74) the recording device (52), the switch (54) and a memory (60, 76) are connected, - A character generator coupled to the processor (44, 74) (80) for providing characters to be mapped under the control of the processor (44, 74), - A display monitor coupled to the fuse generator (80) (14) for displaying characters generated by the character generator (80) and g ₀ - a device (30) which outputs a corresponding detection signal to the processor (44, 74) in response to the selection of a specific area of the display on the monitor (14). 8. editing system according to claim 7, characterized by a data storage system (76, 78, 60) coupled to the processor (74). 9. Editing system according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by a plurality of controllers (82, 112, 114, 116) which between the processor (74) and the at least an information source (46, 48, 50), the recording device (52), the switch (54) and the device for , Q output of a corresponding detection signal coupled each controller is able to convert 7 "data" from serial to parallel form. 10. Editing system according to one of claims 7 to 9, marked, p marked through a plurality of interfaces (62, 64, 66, 68, 72) between the processor (74) and the at least one information source (46), the recording device (52) and the switch (54) are connected, wherein every interface is able to convert data from serial form into a machine-compatible form and / or to convert vice versa. 11. Editing system according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the device (30) for providing a corresponding detection signal is designed for the touch of certain areas to be addressed by an operator on the display (28) of the monitor (14). 12. Editing system according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the monitor (14) is a cathode tube (26) with a screen (28) and a device for providing a corresponding Detection signal with an arrangement (32, 34, 36, 38) for providing a network of interruptible, rays across the screen (28) of the cathode tube (26). «Φ ο« ρ « -5- 13. Editing system, in particular according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized by - a central processing unit (74), - one with the central processing unit (74) linked memory (76, 78, 60), - A character generator (80) coupled to the central processing unit (74) .Q, - a human-system interface (42) coupled to the character generator (80), ₁ , - - a device (82) coupling the human-system interface (42) to the central processing unit (74), - at least one source information recording device (46, 48, 50), - A first controller (112), the at least one Source information recording device (46, 48, 50) coupled to the central processing unit (74), - a recording device (52), - a second controller (116) that controls the recorder-pickup device (52) coupled to the central processing unit (74), - one between the at least one source information recording device (46, 48, 50) and the recording / recording device (52) switched switch (54) and - A third controller (114), which between the switches (54) and the central processing unit (74) is switched, wherein the first and second and third controllers (112, P- 116, 114) for storage, possibly intermediate storage and Conversion of the coming from the central processing unit (74) or to the central processing unit (74) is capable of routing data from one form to another. 14. Editing system according to claim 13, characterized in that that at least one of the first, second and third controllers (112, 114, 116) is a central processing unit (120) with memory (126, 128). 15. Editing system according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that that at least one of the first, second and third controllers (112, 114, 116) has a processor (120), a transceiver coupled to the processor (120) _on (118, 130), a memory (126, 128) coupled to the processor (120) and the transmitter / receiver (118, 130) and one connected between the transmitter / receiver (118, 130) and the processor (120) Address comparator (134) includes. 16. Editing system according to claim 14 or 15, characterized by a receiver / transmitter (138) coupled to the processor (120) which is used to convert data from parallel to serial form and vice versa is suitable. 17. Editing system according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized by one between the first controller (112) and the at least one source information recorder (46) connected first interface (62), one between the second controller (116) and the recording / recording device (52) switched second interface (68) and one between the third controller (114) and the switch (54) switched third interface (72), each of the first, second and third Interfaces (62, 68, 72) a processor (104, 106) for converting data from serial to machine-compatible Has shape and vice versa. 18. editing system according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one of the first, second and third Interfaces (62, 68, 72) a serial data processor coupled to one of the controllers (112, 114, 116) (104), a time code processor (110) coupled to the serial data processor (104) and one with the data conversion module coupled to the serial data processor (104) (106) includes. 19. Audio / V: deo editing systems, especially after one of the preceding claims, characterized by - an editing control (74), - A data monitor (14) which is coupled to the editing control (74) and has a screen (28) for generation an illustration, - A human-system interface coupled to the E ^ icier control (44) (42), which is designed to supply the edit control (44) with signals that special, selected by a surgeon areas of the image on the monitor '(14), the Editing control (44) ensures the generation of images on the data monitor and is designed to modify the mappings according to signals provided by the human-system interface (42) j ι - at least one, preferably several with the edit control (44) linked sources / audio / video tape devices (46, 48, 50), - A recording audio / video tape recorder coupled to the edit control (44) (52) and - one between the at least one source audio / video tape device (46, 48, 50) and the recording audio / video tape recorder (52) switched switch (54) which is also coupled to the editing control (44), the editing control (44) for controlling the at least one source audio / video tape recorder (46, 48, 50), the recorder audio / video tape recorder (52) and the switch (54) is designed. 20. Editing system according to claim 19, characterized by a data storage system (60) coupled to the edit control (44). 21. Editing system according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that that the human-system interface (42) is attached to the front of the monitor (14), includes touch-sensitive arrangement (32, 34, 36, 38). 22. Editing system according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the human-system interface (42) comprises at least one keypad (20) with a plurality of predetermined editing functions Keys. 23. Editing system according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterized through several interfaces (62, 64, 66, 68), each between the editing control (44) and one of the source audio / video tape recorders (46, 48, 50), the recording audio / video tape recorder (52) and the conversion -9 switch (42) are switched. 24. Editing system according to one of claims 19 to 23, characterized characterized in that the edit control (44) one A plurality of programmable (intelligent) line controls (82, 112, 114, 116), one of which with one of the source audio / video tape devices (46, 48, 50), one with the recording audio / video tape device (52), one is coupled to the switch (54) and one to the human-system interface (42).